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Center Street Finance’s Jessica Allen Selected 2023 Women in Auto Finance

Center Street Finance, LP

Center Street Finance, a boutique advisory and auto loan servicing firm, proudly announces the inclusion of Jessica Allen, Senior Vice President of Risk Management and Senior Partner at Center Street Finance, in the 2023 list of Women in Auto Finance. The prestigious recognition presented by Auto Fin Journal acknowledges outstanding leaders in the auto finance industry who hold some of the most essential auto finance positions while providing critical guidance and producing high-level results. Honorees are featured in the September issue of Auto Fin Journal and will be recognized at the Westin Kierland in Scottsdale, Arizona on November 8th during Used Car Week. “Jessica oversees all aspects of risk and operations, provides critical guidance, and delivers exceptional results, making her an invaluable asset to the firm,” said Matt Burke, CEO of Center Street Finance and COO of Agora Data, Inc. “Jessica's impressive level of responsibility and can-do attitude demonstrates an unparalleled work ethic rooted in integrity. She is an inspiring colleague and influential leader in the auto finance industry, deserving of recognition as a recipient of the prestigious Women in Auto Finance award.” Jessica joined Center Street Finance in 2015 and currently serves as the Senior Vice President and Senior Partner. Her key responsibilities include overseeing risk management and loan servicing operations. She also manages ongoing engagements with our capital markets clients, providing expertise in portfolio management, valuation, cash-flow projections, reporting, and consulting services. Jessica has made invaluable contributions to the company and has been the architect of several unique and cutting-edge projects. She earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Management from the University of Texas at Arlington and holds a Master of Business Administration from Texas Women's University. Center Street Finance provides multiple services in all facets of consumer, commercial, and specialty finance, such as acquisitions management, portfolio management, line of credit administration, and loan servicing. The team of auto finance experts has managed over $30 billion in consumer finance loans and uses proprietary analytical models to deliver accurate and customized results. The company offers project-based and ongoing services tailored to auto dealers, banks, finance companies, and credit unions' specific needs. About Center Street Finance, LP Center Street Finance, LP is a boutique advisory and loan servicing firm with an experienced management team that actively manages auto and various other consumer finance assets, provides ongoing portfolio management for multiple clients, and advises on all facets of the consumer finance industry. Our senior team has real-world finance experience and can provide turn-key solutions with unmatched service and expertise. For more information on Center Street Finance LP, visit https://csflp.com/, contactus@csflp or 1-682-777-2000. # # # Contact Details Eric PR & Marketing, LLC Eric Nemeth +1 602-502-2793 nemeth@ericpr.com Company Website https://csflp.com/

October 10, 2023 08:06 AM Eastern Daylight Time

DB Schenker Earns Coveted Secretary of Defense Freedom Award

DB Schenker

DB Schenker U.S. Land Transport division, formerly USA Truck, has received the prestigious 2023 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. The honor marks the first-ever Freedom Award for the organization. A contingent of leadership and staff from DB Schenker received the award on behalf of the company in late August at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. "We are truly honored to be recognized by the Department of Defense with the prestigious Freedom Award," said Joe Jaska, DB Schenker EVP, Land Transport, Region Americas. "We take pride in our programs that help create avenues for veterans and reservists to bring their talents to civilian careers. We are a stronger company because of the skills, capabilities, and unique perspectives they bring to our team. A huge thank you goes out to our military recruiting department for spearheading our work with military personnel." Issued by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), the Freedom Award began in 1996 and has only 340 honorees to date. The Freedom Award was created to recognize employers supporting their National Guard and Reserve employees. It is the highest employer recognition award given by the Department of Defense. DB Schenker has a proud legacy of hiring and supporting veterans. It is among the 15 employers in the United States to receive recognition this year, and one of just two trucking companies to receive the prestigious Freedom Award. Before USA Truck became a part of the DB Schenker family, it was poised to be the fifth Arkansas-based company to receive the Freedom Award in its 27-year history. "We have been a significant employer of Veterans and Reservists for many years now," said George Henry, DB Schenker Chief Operating Officer, U.S. Land. "We are proud to support our military families who have selflessly sacrificed to defend our nation's freedom, and we believe that this is the least we can do. It is incredibly humbling to be recognized with this elite award for all DB Schenker employees who continuously strive to lead the experience for our veterans and reservists. We thank the ESGR for the recognition and look forward to many more years supporting their mission." The 2023 recipients were selected from nearly 1,900 nominations, including private and public sector employers nominated by a National Guard or Reserve Component employee employed in their organization. The selected employers came from the 50 states, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam-CNMI, and the District of Columbia. The DB Schenker military recruiting program helped make the Freedom Award possible. The program is headed by Carroll Davidson and William Geoghagan. As U.S. Army veterans, they are dedicated and passionate about facilitating service members entering the transportation industry. DB Schenker military program focuses on service members transitioning from active-duty status and recognizes service members' real-world experience. The company has a Veteran Experience Program (VXP) within its military program, where transitioning, qualified personnel can use a Military Skills Waiver and bypass training. "Citizens and businesses alike can never do enough to support our reservists and veterans," stated David Buss, DB Schenker CEO of North America. "USAT has a great record of hiring these valued members of the community that have sacrificed for the betterment of all of us. The leadership at DB Schenker USA is working diligently to expand the USAT recruiting program to our Airfreight, Ocean Freight, and Contract Logistics Business Units. We look forward to the continued partnership with The Department of Defense." About DB Schenker DB Schenker is one of the largest Integrated Logistics Service Providers in the Americas with more than 10,000 employees in 123 locations providing over 27 million sq. ft. of distribution operations to its clients. DB Schenker’s Americas presence includes Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama, Peru, United States, and Venezuela. DB Schenker offers land transport and air and ocean freight, as well as comprehensive logistics solutions and global supply chain management services from a single source. With integrated partners across the Americas, DB Schenker provides the best combination of intimate local practices knowledge and global capabilities. About the Freedom Award The Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award is the highest recognition given by the U.S. Government to employers for their support of their employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve. Secretary of Defense William Perry authorized the first award in 1996 and presented it to Schneider National, McDonnell Douglas, United Parcel Service Central Florida District, Tektronix, Inc., and National Life of Vermont. In the years since 340 employers have received this prestigious award. The nomination process is open to all Guard and Reserve personnel or a family member acting on their behalf, and applications are submitted online to ESGR. A national selection board of senior Defense officials and business leaders selects the award recipients. For more about the Freedom Award, visit freedomaward.mil. About ESGR ESGR, a Department of Defense office, was established in 1972 to promote cooperation and understanding between Reserve Component Service members and their civilian employers and to assist in resolving conflicts arising from an employee's military commitment. ESGR develops and promotes supportive work environments for Service members in the Reserve Components through outreach, recognition, and educational opportunities that increase awareness of applicable laws. It also aids in resolving conflicts between Service members and their employers. Recognizing supportive employers is vital to ESGR's mission. ESGR's 54 State Committees actively promote awards as a critical element in furthering employer support while strengthening relationships between Service members and employers. These Department of Defense awards honor the sacrifices made by so many employers year after year. To learn more about ESGR, a Defense Personnel and Family Support Office program, visit www.ESGR.mil. Contact Details Nicholas Leighton +1 949-478-5880 nick.leighton@nettresultsLLC.com Company Website https://www.dbschenker.com/usa

October 10, 2023 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Ilika receives £400,000 grant to help fund its "crusade toward net zero"

Ilika PLC

Ilika PLC (AIM:IKA, OTCQX:ILIKF) CEO Graeme Purdy speaks to Thomas Warner from Proactive after the innovative battery developer announced it will receive £400,000 of a £2.7 million grant from the Automotive Transformation Fund (ATF). The funding is part of a 16-month, £2.7 million collaboration programme that kicked off on 1 October. Ilika is collaborating with Mpac Group (LSE:MPAC) PLC and the UK Battery Industrialisation Centre (UKBIC) for this initiative. Purdy explains that the funding will be used to enhance the production of their large "Goliath" battery. In collaboration with Mpac, Ilika plans to establish an assembly line, increasing their manufacturing capacity from 0.5 to 1.5 Watt hours annually. This move aligns with their strategy to implement a fully automated pilot line. Additionally, the grant will support their partnership with the UK Battery Industrialisation Centre in Coventry, focusing on electrode production for pouch cells using giga factory scale equipment. Purdy emphasised that this grant underscores Ilika's commitment to the automotive sector and their alignment with the UK's industrial strategy towards achieving Net Zero. The company reported a robust cash balance of £14.6 million at the end of their last fiscal year. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

October 10, 2023 04:18 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Minuteman Press Franchise Comes to Poundbury and Dorchester, Moves to Brand New Premises

Minuteman Press International Inc

Sprint Digital, Dorchester's leading small business printers, have successfully completed the transition into a Minuteman Press franchise. Owners David and Juanita Prince have relocated from their town centre premises, shared with the Dorchester Post Office, into their own stand alone premises in Poundbury at 13 & 14 Jubilee Court, Paceycombe Way. David Prince said, “With easy access and free parking, the offices just down from the Buttermarket are well placed for access for our clients. We will also continue to deliver to our existing business customers in Dorchester should they need to ensure a seamless transition for our clients.” Operating for over 50 years to serve local business communities, Minuteman Press International has almost 1000 independently owned and operated franchise locations worldwide. The transition from Sprint Digital to Minuteman Press will give small businesses in Dorchester, Poundbury and its surrounds more access to an extremely wide range of print solutions, from business cards and fliers to small signage, branded promotional items and much more. In response to the rebranding, David and Juanita stated, "The move to Minuteman Press will allow our print business to grow offering the businesses of Dorchester, Poundbury and its surrounds a quality affordable print solution. We are also inviting businesses to shop locally knowing that the product is as environmentally sourced as possible and supported by the expertise of world's leading print franchise.” Mark Jones, Regional VP of Minuteman Press International added, "We are excited to be working with David and Juanita, helping them to grow their franchise whilst supporting the local community with all their print requirements." As part of the conversion David Prince has reaffirmed that MMP Dorchester will take over Sprint Digital's sponsorship of the Dorchester Ladies football team into the 2023/24 season and they will continue to support the developers of Dorchesters Bike Park by providing a range of print solutions for their promotional needs. For more information on Minuteman Press in Dorchester and Poundbury, call 01305 264171 or visit their website: https://minuteman.com/uk/locations/england/dorchester/ Minuteman Press provides digital print, design, promotional products and services to businesses. Today they are much more than just print. They can provide anything you can put a name, image or logo on! Minuteman Press International was once again rated the #1 Printing & Marketing Services Franchise in the printing industry by Entrepreneur Magazine in 2023. This is the 32nd time overall and 20th straight year that they have achieved this stellar rating. Learn more about Minuteman Press franchise opportunities and read Minuteman Press franchise reviews at http://minutemanpressfranchise.co.uk Contact Details Minuteman Press International Chris Biscuiti +1 631-249-1370 cbiscuiti@mpihq.com Company Website https://minutemanpressfranchise.com

October 05, 2023 09:38 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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S&U "has to be careful" amid difficult macroeconomic circumstances

S & U PLC

S&U PLC (LSE:SUS) chairman Anthony Coombs speaks to Thomas Warner from Proactive after the specialist motor finance & bridging lender released its interim results for the six months to 31 July. Coombs gives an overview of how the business performed during the period, highlighting a 12% rise in revenues with a slight profit increase. Despite facing economic headwinds, reflected in current stock market valuations and high interest rates affecting business finance costs, he remains optimistic. He notes concerns about the cost of living impacting their customers and emphasises the importance of sustainable loan repayments, especially in motor finance. The property market has seen a slowdown, with a potential 5% reduction in residential values. He says the company "has got to be careful in terms of our underwriting, we've got responsibilities not only in commercial terms but in maintaining excellent relationships with our customers." However, S&U maintains conservative loan-to-value ratios and has witnessed excellent collections in their aspirin bridging operation. Coombs highlights the company's commitment to maintaining high standards in customer relations, especially with new regulatory measures in place. He concludes by saying that while the economic and political landscape remains uncertain, S&U continues to prioritise customer service and fairness. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

October 05, 2023 04:33 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Murgado Automotive Group Acquires Two Mercedes-Benz Dealerships in Central Virginia

Murgado Automotive Group

Murgado Automotive Group, a leading automotive retailer with dealer franchises in Florida, Illinois, and New Jersey, today proudly announced its acquisition of two Mercedes-Benz dealerships in Central Virginia. The addition of Mercedes-Benz of Richmond and Mercedes-Benz of Midlothian marks the 25th and 26th dealerships, respectively, to join the Murgado Automotive Group portfolio. The company represents many of the top global automotive brands, ranging from economy to ultra-luxury vehicles. This acquisition aligns with Murgado Automotive Group's long-term strategic plans for expansion into burgeoning markets across the eastern and midwestern regions of the United States. The sale closed on October 3, 2023. No staffing changes have been announced. “Mercedes-Benz of Richmond and Mercedes-Benz of Midlothian have been top performers for decades in Central Virginia,” said Mario Murgado, CEO of Murgado Automotive Group. “I want to thank both the McGeorge family for working with us on this opportunity, and Mercedes-Benz for trusting our company to build on the legacy of the dealerships and one of the most recognizable brands in the world.” Mercedes-Benz has been part of the McGeorge family of dealerships since 1968, as the dealership group has moved and expanded its facilities to better serve Central Virginia's luxury car marketplace. “It's humbling to succeed a dealership group that has been built from the ground up and is now run by a third-generation leader,” said Murgado. “We, too, are passionate about our family-owned operations and are eager to introduce our unique brand of automotive retailing to Central Virginia, all while honoring our predecessors and Mercedes-Benz." Murgado Automotive Group, founded in Miami, Fla. in 2001, is a family-owned and operated automotive retailer with 26 dealer franchises in Florida, Chicago, New Jersey, and now Virginia. The company represents leading automotive brands, including Acura, Alfa Romeo, Audi, Bentley, BMW, Buick, Cadillac, Ferrari, GMC, Honda, Infiniti, Maserati, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, and Volkswagen. With a commitment to exceptional customer service and operational excellence, Murgado Automotive Group has been recognized as one of the top automotive retailers in the United States. More information is available at MurgadoAutomotiveGroup.com. Contact Details John P. David +1 305-724-3903 john@davidpr.com Company Website http://www.MurgadoAutomotiveGroup.com

October 03, 2023 02:18 PM Eastern Daylight Time

VinFast officially launches VF 6 in Vietnam

Vingroup

HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM - Media OutReach - 29 September 2023 - VinFast has officially launched VF 6, its first electric model in the B-SUV segment, the ideal choice to begin every journey for Vietnamese families. With a starting price of 675 million VND, the VF 6 is now available for order in the Vietnamese market from October 20, 2023. In the Vietnamese market, the VinFast VF 6 comes with 2 trims: Base and Plus. The base trim starts at 675 million VND (excluding battery) or 765 million VND (including battery), while the plus trim starts at 765 million VND (excluding battery) or 855 million VND (including battery). From October 20, 2023, customers can place their orders at VinFast stores, dealer networks, or through the website https://reserve.vinfastauto.com to enjoy attractive offers. Specifically, customers will receive incentives of up to 20 million VND when making the order from October 20 until 23:59 October 30, 2023; and complete the purchase procedure within 3 months from the date VinFast starts to deliver the VF 6 to the customers. The offer is not applied to the customer who changes the owner's name in the purchase. VinFast will also display VF 6 at VinFast Stores and its dealer's showroom network nationwide from September 30, 2023, allowing customers to experience the product before making their order decision. The delivery of the VinFast VF 6 models to Vietnamese customers is expected to commence by the end of 2023. VF 6 is the next strategic model in VinFast's electric vehicle lineup, after VF e34, VF 8, VF 9, and VF 5. The model features a sophisticated design crafted by world-renowned Torino Design, a spacious and comfortable interior for the whole family, powerful performance, and a wide range of smart technologies and features. VinFast VF 6 has a length of 4,238mm, a width of 1,820mm, a height of 1,594mm, and a wheelbase of 2,730mm. These measurements ensure ample interior space, equivalent to that of C-segment internal combustion engine cars. The VF 6 features a stylish exterior design, featuring VinFast's distinctive LED light strip and attractive 5-spoke alloy wheels. The alloy wheels can be up to 19 inches in size, enhancing the car's overall striking appearance. VF 6 offers a range of colors for both its exterior and interior. It provides five available options for the exterior and two for the interior. One standout new choice is the introduction of a Mocca Brown interior color, which caters to the varying tastes, preferences, and styles of a diverse range of customers. Both Base and Plus trims of the VF 6 are equipped with a 59.6 kW LFP battery that enables a driving range of up to 399 km and 381 km respectively (WLTP standards) per full charge. The vehicle uses an electric motor that boasts a maximum power of 100 kW and 150 kW respectively with a maximum torque of 135 Nm and 310 Nm, giving an exciting driving experience and easily meeting the travel needs of all passengers. In early 2024, the VF 6 Plus will be updated over the air and free of charge to integrate the advanced driver assistance system. The update will bring various outstanding features to the VF 6 Plus, including traffic jam assist, highway assist, lane keep assist, lane centering assist, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, front/rear automatic emergency braking, and more. These features enhance the driving experience of the VinFast VF 6, making it stand out in its segment and providing drivers with excitement and peace of mind on every journey. In addition, the VinFast VF 6 is a high-quality electric vehicle equipped with advanced technology and smart features to meet the entertainment and utility needs of its drivers. The VinFast virtual assistant is available to interact with drivers using multi-regional Vietnamese voice commands, answering questions, and providing control of the vehicle. As with all VinFast electric vehicles, the VF 6 includes excellent after-sales policies such as a 7-year or 160,000 km (whichever comes first) warranty, Special Aftersales Policies, and a commitment to buying back used electric cars after five years at an attractive price. Customers can learn more about the showcase schedule of VF 6 at https://vinfastauto.com or on the official VinFast page: https://www.facebook.com/VinFastAuto.Official. Contact Details Media Contact +84 96 196 65 65 v.chidqd1@vingroup.net Company Website https://vinfastauto.com

September 29, 2023 11:57 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Green SM reaches the six millionth ride

Vingroup

HANOI, VIETNAM - Media OutReach - 29 September 2023 - Green SM, the pure electric vehicle ride-hailing service of Vietnam's Green and Smart Mobility JSC. (GSM) proudly announced that it has reached the 6 millionth ride after only 5 months of its market launch. This is a record growth rate, firmly demonstrating the development potential as well as the solid foothold of Green SM in the field of passenger transport in Vietnam. The special customer who took the 6 millionth ride is Mr. Nguyen Thai Duong in Ho Chi Minh City. The other two lucky customers who have orders of 5,999,999th and 6,000,001st are Mr. Nguyen Khanh Hoa in Ha Noi, and Mr. Hoang Long in Binh Duong. Green SM's representatives congratulated the three special guests and presented them each with a gift of appreciation. They are awarded with a green mobility package, of which the 6 millionth customer received an award worth 6 million VND, and the remaining customers received a 3 million VND award each. Sharing her joy, the 6 millionth customer, Mr. Nguyen Thai Duong said: "I am a frequent customer of Green SM because it provides not only a nice and clean vehicle but also professional and well-trained drivers. It is also a zero-emission and zero-noise ride-hailing company, a pioneer in green transportation. I hope Green SM will grow further in Vietnam and across the borders so that everyone can join hands to protect our environment." Green SM officially launched its pure-electric ride-hailing service on 14 April 2023 and has rolled out its electric taxi service in 17 provinces and cities across the country, reaching 6 million rides. By the end of 2023, Green SM plans to expand its fleet size to 30,000 electric taxis and 90,000 electric scooters, affirming its pioneering position and aspiration to extend the green journey across 27 provinces and cities in Vietnam and 3 Southeast Asian countries. The difference of Green SM is not only in its "5-star" service standards but also in its practical contribution to the environment. With a fleet of 100% pure electric vehicles from VinFast, Green SM has accompanied customers for 35 million kilometers with zero emissions and noise, contributing to reducing the carbon emissions equivalent to 1 million trees photosynthesizing in 100 days. Additionally, Green SM is also proud to contribute 1,000 VND per electric taxi trip and 100 VND per electric motorbike trip to the "For Green Future" Foundation, established by Vingroup. To date, Green SM has contributed nearly 4 billion VND to the Foundation for environmental protection activities and creating a sustainable future in Vietnam. Sharing about the milestone of the 6 millionth ride, Mr. Thanh Nguyen, CEO of GSM said: "The impressive figures we've achieved today have affirmed our reputation and position in the green transportation revolution. The trust and companionship of the community are the driving forces for Green SM to continue conquering challenges and pursuing sustainable development goals in the future." Not only providing "reliable, technological, and smart" transportation solutions, Green SM has also become a "green mobility icon", contributing to changing public transportation and raising community awareness of environmental protection in Vietnam and in the region. Contact Details Media Contact +84 96 196 65 65 v.chidqd1@vingroup.net Company Website https://www.xanhsm.com/

September 29, 2023 11:51 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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GSM officially launches electric scooter ride-hailing services in Ho Chi Minh City

Vingroup

HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM - Media OutReach - 29 September 2023 - The Green SM Bike, GSM's electric scooter ride-hailing service, is officially launched in HCM City. The company aims to expand to another six provinces and cities and to increase the electric scooter fleet to up to 90,000 units in 2023. From 29 September 2023, customers in Ho Chi Minh City can conveniently book and use the Green SM Bike's electric scooter ride-hailing service through the Green SM mobile application. The starting price is VN13,800 for the first 2 kilometers (equivalent to VND6,900/km), and VND4,800/km from the third kilometer onwards. The VinFast Feliz S model will be used for the Green SM Bike's electric scooter fleet, showcasing the distinctive Cyan Blue paint. The model is highly valued by both drivers and passengers for its powerful engine, smooth performance, and soft, comfortable seating. Echoing Green SM's core values, Green SM Bike also commits to providing its passengers with an outstanding service experience through a team of friendly, well-trained, and professional drivers. With the benefits of zero petrol odor and engine noise, along with being beneficial for human health and the environment, the Green SM Bike will be a prime transportation choice for all. Mr. Thanh Nguyen – CEO of GSM said: "Green SM Bike will offer Ho Chi Minh City residents another convenient and eco-friendly transportation option, thereby significantly promoting green mobility habits within the community. This is an essential expansion of Green SM's product and service portfolio in Ho Chi Minh City, a foremost economic, political, cultural, and educational center in the country, thereby underlining its brand reputation and commitment to a green future for all." Prior to the launch in Ho Chi Minh City, Green SM Bike was introduced in Hanoi and received substantial support from the residents. Specifically, around 1 million rides were undertaken in just over a month. Aligned with the aim of offering e-scooter transportation solutions and promoting the ethos of green living, Green SM Bike is also dedicated to the mission of "For Green Future", a foundation established by Vingroup. This foundation kickstarts actionable projects and programs geared towards achieving sustainable green development in line with Vietnam's green transition initiatives. Specifically, for every completed ride, Green SM Bike will contribute VND100, while Green SM's taxi will allocate VND1,000 to the Foundation. To date, Green SM has donated nearly VND4 billion to the "For Green Future" Foundation, proactively participating in environmental conservation activities and fostering a sustainable future in numerous provinces and cities across Vietnam. For more information about Green SM Bike, Green SM, and Green SM Luxury Taxi services, customers can visit Green SM's official website or download the Green SM mobile application from App Store and Google Play. Contact Details Media Contact +84 96 196 65 65 v.chidqd1@vingroup.net Company Website https://www.xanhsm.com/

September 29, 2023 09:15 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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